GENERIC NAME: AMIODARONE - ORAL (A-mee-OH-da-rone)

BRAND NAME(S): Cordarone, Pacerone

WARNING: Though this medication often gives great benefits to people with irregular heartbeat, it may infrequently worsen an irregular heartbeat or cause serious (sometimes fatal) side effects. When starting treatment with this drug, your doctor may have you stay in the hospital for proper monitoring.

Amiodarone may take 2 weeks or longer to have an effect in your body. Also, this drug stays in your body for weeks to months, even after you are no longer taking it. Therefore, serious side effects may occur weeks to months after taking amiodarone. Serious side effects may include lung or liver problems. Tell your doctor immediately if you notice any symptoms of lung or liver problems such as cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing up blood, persistent nausea/vomiting, dark urine, severe stomach/abdominal pain, or yellowing eyes/skin.